Top 11 Construction Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a construction coordinator’s professional development and demonstrate to employers that the individual has obtained a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. They also provide credentials for job seekers, making them more attractive candidates in the job market. Having certifications proves that the individual has taken initiative to learn more about their profession, which can make them stand out from other applicants. Additionally, certifications can help individuals gain access to higher-paying positions in the field, as they are often preferred by employers looking for experienced professionals.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Construction Coordinators and explains how they can help further a Construction Coordinator's career.

What are Construction Coordinator Certifications?

Construction Coordinator Certification is a professional credential designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to coordinate the construction of buildings and other structures. This certification is offered by the National Institute for Construction Coordination (NICC) and provides professionals with an understanding of the legal, financial, and technical aspects of construction coordination.

The certification helps demonstrate to employers that individuals have been trained in the fundamentals of construction coordination and understand how to effectively manage projects from start to finish. It also provides access to useful resources such as industry publications, online forums, and networking events. With this certification, professionals can gain recognition among their peers for their expertise in construction coordination, increase their earning potential, and obtain a greater level of respect from clients. Additionally, obtaining this certification can make it easier to transition into higher-level roles within the construction industry or even move into related fields such as project management or facilities management.

Pro Tip: If you’re interested in becoming a construction coordinator, make sure to research the certification requirements for your state or municipality. Certification may include taking certain classes and passing an exam. It's important to understand the exact requirements before embarking on any training or certification process.

Related: What does a Construction Coordinator do?

Top 11 Construction Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Construction Coordinators today.

1. Construction Project Management Certification

Construction Project Management Certification is a certification that is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and competency in the field of construction project management. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, processes, and tools necessary for successful project management. The certification is offered by multiple organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), American Institute of Constructors (AIC), and Construction Management Association of America (CMAA).

The duration of the certification program varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally, it takes between 6-12 months to complete the program. This includes completing online coursework, attending seminars or workshops, and passing a final exam.

To get Construction Project Management Certification, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements set by the organization offering the certification. These requirements generally include having a minimum number of years of experience in construction project management and/or related fields, as well as having completed certain courses or programs related to construction project management.

The cost for Construction Project Management Certification varies depending on which organization is offering it. Generally speaking, costs range from $500-$2,000 USD for the entire program including all materials and exams.

2. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of construction managers. The CCM credential demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional development and proficiency in the field of construction management.

To become a Certified Construction Manager, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of experience in construction management or related fields. Additionally, you must complete a rigorous application process that includes passing an exam and obtaining references from three qualified individuals.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project planning, scheduling, cost estimating, contract administration, safety management, and quality control. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and is administered twice a year at various locations throughout the United States.

The cost for taking the CCM exam is $595 for CMAA members and $695 for non-members. After successfully completing the exam, there is an annual certification fee of $195 for CMAA members or $295 for non-members. This fee covers your first year of certification and must be renewed each year thereafter in order to maintain your CCM status.

Overall, becoming a Certified Construction Manager can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on how quickly you are able to complete all of the necessary steps in the application process.

3. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)

Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). It is designed to recognize and promote individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the construction industry. The CPC credential is awarded to those who successfully complete the AIC's rigorous examination process.

The CPC examination consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral exam. The written exam covers topics such as project management, contract law, construction methods, and safety regulations. The oral exam focuses on the applicant's understanding of ethical practices and professional standards within the construction industry.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for CPC certification. Applicants must first submit an application for review by the AIC, which includes providing evidence of their education, experience, and training in construction-related fields. Once approved, applicants can then register for the exams.

The cost of becoming a Certified Professional Constructor varies depending on where you take your exams and other factors such as whether you are already a member of AIC or have taken any preparatory courses. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 to become certified.

4. Construction Safety and Health Technician (CSHT)

Construction Safety and Health Technician (CSHT) is a certification program developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). It is designed to provide safety professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to help employers prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The CSHT program focuses on the development of hazard recognition, risk assessment, control planning, implementation, evaluation, and other related activities.

The CSHT program consists of three courses: Introduction to Construction Safety & Health; Construction Hazard Recognition & Control; and Construction Risk Management & Evaluation. Each course must be completed in order to receive the certification. Depending on the student's prior knowledge and experience, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all three courses.

To become certified as a CSHT, you must pass an exam administered by NIOSH. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, generally speaking it costs around $200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the coursework required for certification such as tuition or course materials.

Overall, becoming certified as a CSHT requires dedication and hard work but can open up many opportunities in the field of construction safety and health.

5. OSHA 30-Hour Training for Construction

OSHA 30-Hour Training for Construction is an in-depth safety program designed to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, reduce, and eliminate safety and health hazards in the construction industry. The training is provided by OSHA-authorized trainers and covers a wide range of topics related to construction safety, including fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), hazard communication, materials handling, and more.

The training takes 30 hours to complete and can be taken in either a classroom setting or online. In order to receive an OSHA 30-Hour Construction card, participants must attend all sessions and successfully pass the final exam.

The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$400. Many employers will cover the cost of training for their employees as part of their commitment to workplace safety.

6. LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction

LEED Accredited Professional (AP) in Building Design and Construction is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the LEED Rating System, as well as experience in green building design and construction. LEED APs are knowledgeable about the principles of green building, sustainable design, and energy efficiency, and they help to ensure that buildings meet or exceed LEED standards.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the requirements for becoming a LEED AP. To become a LEED AP, you must first register with the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). After registering, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as green building materials and systems, energy efficiency strategies, water conservation strategies, indoor environmental quality considerations, and more. Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded your LEED AP credentials.

The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on where you take the exam. In general, it costs around $500 to register for the exam and another $400-$500 for study materials. Additionally, some organizations may require additional fees for taking their courses or attending their workshops.

Overall, becoming a LEED AP is an important step towards becoming a leader in sustainable design and construction. It demonstrates your commitment to green building practices and helps ensure that buildings meet or exceed LEED standards.

7. Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP)

Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Building Commissioning Association (BCA). It is designed to recognize the expertise of professionals in the field of building commissioning. The CBCP designation is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in commissioning buildings, systems, and equipment.

The CBCP certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as building codes, energy efficiency, system design, commissioning processes, and project management. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge by completing a series of tasks related to building commissioning.

The cost of obtaining the CBCP certification varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD. The length of time it takes to complete the certification process will depend on how quickly you are able to complete the online exam and practical assessment.

In order to become certified as a CBCP, applicants must first register with BCA and pay for their examination fee. Once registered, applicants must then pass both the online exam and practical assessment in order to receive their certification.

8. Certified Cost Engineer (CCE)

Certified Cost Engineer (CCE) is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s expertise in cost engineering and management. It is offered by the American Association of Cost Engineers (AACE), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of cost engineering and management.

To become a Certified Cost Engineer, one must pass the AACE Certification Exam. The exam consists of two parts: Part I covers topics related to cost estimating, project control, and risk management; Part II covers topics related to cost engineering principles, practices, and techniques. The exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $500 for members of AACE or $750 for non-members.

In order to be eligible for the CCE certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in cost engineering or related fields such as project management or construction management. Additionally, applicants must have 40 hours of formal training in cost engineering or related fields.

Applicants who successfully pass the exam will be awarded the CCE certification from AACE. This certification is valid for three years before renewal is required. Renewal requires proof of continuing education credits earned through approved activities such as attending conferences or taking courses in cost engineering or related fields.

9. American Institute of Constructors Associate Constructor (AIC-AC)

The American Institute of Constructors Associate Constructor (AIC-AC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). The AIC-AC certification is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals in the construction industry. It is a voluntary certification that demonstrates a commitment to professional development and excellence in the field.

To be eligible for AIC-AC certification, an individual must have at least three years of experience working in the construction industry and must pass an exam administered by AIC. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as project management, contract administration, safety management, and quality assurance. The practical portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The cost for taking the AIC-AC exam varies depending on the location where it is taken; however, most locations charge around $400 for the entire exam process. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining study materials or other resources needed to prepare for the exam.

It typically takes about six months from start to finish to complete all requirements necessary to obtain AIC-AC certification. This includes studying for and taking the exam as well as submitting any required paperwork or documentation. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official certificate from AIC indicating they have achieved AIC-AC certification status.

10. American Council for Accredited Certification Quality Control Manager (ACAC-QCM)

The American Council for Accredited Certification Quality Control Manager (ACAC-QCM) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of quality control management. This certification is intended to provide assurance that a quality control manager has the necessary skills and abilities to effectively manage a quality control system.

To become an ACAC-QCM certified individual, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality control principles, methods, and practices; application of quality control standards; and problem solving. The exam is administered by the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC). It typically takes around three hours to complete the exam.

Applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in a related field before they can be eligible for the certification. Additionally, applicants must submit an application package that includes their resume, references from employers or colleagues, and other supporting documents.

The cost of becoming an ACAC-QCM certified individual varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking (e.g., Certified Quality Control Manager or Certified Quality Assurance Manager). Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $400-$600 USD.

11. American Society of Professional Estimators Associate Estimator (ASPE-AE).

The American Society of Professional Estimators Associate Estimator (ASPE-AE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of competency in the field of cost estimating. The ASPE-AE certification is administered by the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).

To become an ASPE-AE, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field of cost estimation and pass a comprehensive written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as project management, cost estimating principles, and construction methods.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first complete an application form and pay a fee. The fee for the exam is currently $250 USD. After submitting the application form and fee, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access their online study guide and register for their chosen examination date.

Once registered, applicants will have up to six months to study for the exam and prepare for it. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will be awarded their ASPE-AE certification which is valid for three years before renewal is required.

The cost associated with obtaining an ASPE-AE certification includes the $250 USD application fee as well as any additional costs associated with studying for the exam such as books or online courses.

Do You Really Need a Construction Coordinator Certificate?

When considering whether or not to pursue a Construction Coordinator Certificate, it is important to understand what this certificate can offer. The certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry, including safety regulations and best practices, as well as management techniques. It also provides an overview of the design process and construction project coordination.

For professionals who are looking to gain a better understanding of the industry, or those who are interested in pursuing a career in construction coordination, obtaining a Construction Coordinator Certificate can be very beneficial. It provides an opportunity to learn more about the different aspects of the construction industry and how they interact with one another. Additionally, it can provide valuable insight into the different roles that must be filled when managing a construction project.

In addition to gaining knowledge about the general principles of construction coordination, obtaining a Construction Coordinator Certificate can also help individuals stand out from their peers when applying for jobs in this field. Having this certification can demonstrate that an individual is knowledgeable about all aspects of construction coordination and has experience working on projects in this area. This type of knowledge and experience may give applicants an edge over other applicants that do not possess similar credentials.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue a Construction Coordinator Certificate depends on your individual goals and aspirations within the field of construction coordination. If you want to gain comprehensive knowledge about different areas related to construction coordination or if you are looking for ways to make yourself more attractive to potential employers, then obtaining this certificate could be beneficial for you.

Related: Construction Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Construction Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Construction Coordinator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills related to the field of construction coordination. This certification includes topics such as project management, safety, scheduling, communication, and problem solving.

2. How do I become certified as a Construction Coordinator?

Answer: In order to become certified as a Construction Coordinator, you must complete an accredited program or course of study in the field. You may also need to pass a comprehensive exam in order to obtain the certification.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Construction Coordinator?

Answer: The benefits of becoming a Certified Construction Coordinator include increased job opportunities, better pay rates, and improved credibility in the industry. Additionally, having this certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the construction coordination field.

4. What kinds of jobs can I get with a Construction Coordinator Certification?

Answer: With a Construction Coordinator Certification, you can pursue various career paths related to project management and construction coordination such as project manager, site supervisor, estimator, scheduler or consultant.

5. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified depends on your current knowledge level and how much time you are willing to commit towards studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to one year to complete all requirements for certification.